Leading Innovation: How to Drive Change at Every Level with Robyn Bolton, Founder and Chief Navigator, Mile Zero

Innovation can feel like a leap into the unknown—especially when everything around us already feels uncertain. In this conversation, host Natalie Benamou talks with Robyn Bolton, Founder and Chief Navigator of Mile Zero and author of Unlocking Innovation. Robyn shares practical insights that make innovation feel more possible—and more urgent—than ever.

Together, they explore how to lead innovation both at the organizational level and in your own career. From navigating internal roadblocks to finding your own path forward, Robyn offers real strategies grounded in experience—not theory.

Key Takeaways:

1. Innovation isn’t just about big ideas. Small changes in how teams work, think, and connect can drive meaningful results.
2. Leadership behavior and company culture are often the biggest roadblocks. To innovate, alignment and honest self-reflection are essential.
3. You can innovate for yourself. In times of uncertainty, creating your own momentum is a powerful act of leadership.

Favorite quotes from Robyn Bolton:

“Innovation is inherently uncertain—but it’s also the best way we have to bring certainty to uncertainty.”

“We’ve spent decades focusing on the structure of innovation, but it’s leadership behavior that really drives outcomes.”

“There’s incredible potential right in front of you with what you’re already doing—innovation doesn’t always mean starting from scratch.”

Keep shining your light bright. The world needs you.

About Robyn Bolton, Founder and Chief Navigator, Mile Zero

Robyn Bolton works with senior executives at medium and large companies who are committed to using innovation to confidently and consistently drive revenue growth. She partners with organizations across a range of industries, including industrial goods, healthcare, consumer products, and education. In addition to her consulting work, Robyn is a professor in the Master of Design Innovation program at the Massachusetts College of Art and Design.

Unlock Innovation

Robyn Bolton on LinkedIn

References

Fly Me to the Moon film

Connect with Host Natalie Benamou, Founder HerCsuite®

Natalie is the host of "Women Leaders on the Move'', a top 25 Women's Leadership podcast by Feedspot. She is also the Founder of HerCsuite®, a powerful women's network with membership programs that advance women in the second half of their career. Natalie is also the President of HER HEALTHX, a nonprofit focused on improving health outcomes for women.

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